Weightlifting belts are used to provide critical support during heavy lifting. Designed to increase intra-abdominal pressure, weightlifting belts stabilize your entire midsection and reduce stress on lower back while lifting in upright position. For lifts that challenge core strength like the squat and dead lift, the belt helps support abdominals and obliques. In overhead lifts, weightlifting belts help prevent back hyperextension by forming a rigid wall around the lower torso, connecting the rib cage to the hip. This not only limits back movement, but it also prevents sideward bending and twisting. The belt also provides feedback on the correct body positioning during lifting.